A volunteer program stretching across the state border

parklands Albury-Wodonga, NSW & Victoria www.parklands-alburywodonga.org.au

parklands is a cross-border, community-based, not-for-profit organisation which provides opportunities for people to access and experience the range of natural and developed recreational open space in and around Albury-Wodonga.

parklands volunteers have many opportunities to be involved in projects such as planning, leading guided walks and doing on-ground works. Financial support for parklands is sourced from the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation, NSW and Victorian governments, local councils, grants, corporate sponsorship and grazing licences.

parklands deals with the same issues related to funding and legislation as many other organisations. Planning is crucial for the program as parklands works with two state governments (NSW and Victoria). Across the region and on either sides of the Murray River, the many land managers and local governments have different priorities and objectives.

The overall vision and work on the ground of parklands has a regional and co-ordinated approach, but at times the work loads of paid staff and volunteers are increased and strained as they need to consider the different responsibilities, policies and procedures of the state government departments and councils involved.

The Volunteer Coordinators Network (Natural Areas) Manual © 2004